Travel Tips

Travel Deals: Off-Season Value from the Mountains to the Beach

School is out and summer is right around the corner. For added value this year, look beyond the common travel spots for some off season savings. Whether you’re traveling to the islands with friends and family or you’re looking for a romantic time for two in the mountains, these summer travel deals offer exciting and diverse opportunities.

Island Dining

Sample and savor the diverse cuisine on one of the Caribbean. Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) and Aruba Gastronomic Association (AGA) have partnered to create “Dine on Us,” a culinary promotion that allows guests to experience the flavors of more than 20 international restaurants on the island. When you book between May 30 and July 15, 2012 for trips June 1 through 30, 2012 or September 1 through October 31, 2012 (minimum of two persons per booking), you will receive two $50 “Dine on Us” gift certificates valid at all AGA participating restaurants. For a list of all AGA participating restaurants, click here. For more information or to book your trip, visit this website.

Keeping It in the Family

Get away with family or friends – or both – to one of the five-bedroom villas or ten-bedroom estates at Àni Villas on the exotic Caribbean island of Anguilla. Right now, Àni Villas is offering three exclusive summer packages to get you off the couch and onto the sand. With the “Just get me there!!” Package, you will receive a $3,000 airfare discount on an airline of your choice. Try the “Just Pamper Me!!” Package and receive eight one-hour massages, eight manicures or pedicures and a lobster and Moet feast for eight people. Or if you’re feeling more active, take advantage of the “Off the Couch!!” Package which includes eight two-tank scuba dives with a boat and dive master, a private speed boat snorkeling trip to Little Bay and four rounds of golf at Greg Norman’s Championship course. Packages are valid on all booking dates seven days or more until November 1, 2012. In the summer, weekly package rates start at $30,000 (US) for  a 5-bedroom villa. For more information or to book your trip now, visit them online.

Informed Italian Planning

Considering a trip to Italy? No matter what time of year you plan to go,  the travel newsletter Dream of Italy will help you plan an authentic and engaging Italian adventure. The award-winning publication reveals the best restaurants, hotels, villa rentals, cooking classes, tour guides, off-the-beaten-bath experiences, museums, shopping and more — across every corner of Italy. Every subscriber receives immediate online access to more than 93 back issues  Through the end of June, Dream of Italy is offering $15 off a one-year digital subscription PLUS all new subscribers will receive 3 bonus issues of the glossy British travel and property magazine Italia! (a $32 value). Click here to subscribe.

Head to the Mountains

If you’re looking for something a little more rugged this summer, why not take advantage of one of the many special deals offered in Crested Butte, Colorado this June? Located 8,885 feet above sea level in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is the perfect spot for a high-altitude summer getaway. Choose the “Save Big This June” deal offered by Crested Butte Mountain Resort for rates as low as $110 per night and a free single-ride lift ticket for each person included on the reservation. Book by June 15, 2012 and receive 15 percent off all Crested Butte Mountain Resort lodging options. Contact Crested Butte Vacations at (800) 810-7669 or visit them online to take advantage of this offer.

In addition, Peak Property Management is also offering deals on their accommodations in the Crested Butte area. Book now through June 20, 2012 and receive 20 percent off your stay. Call (888) 909-7325 or visit their website for more information. And if the foodie in you is ready for some summer fun, be sure to check out all of the lodging deals being offered during Crested Butte Restaurant Week, June 8-15, 2012. Learn more by clicking here.

Fourth of July Florida Fun

How about a beach resort without the trouble of traveling to the islands? Head to LeCiel, a contemporary, boutique hotel located on the grounds of the Sandestin Golf and Beach resort situated in Destin, Florida on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Right now, LeCiel is offering unmatched Fourth of July savings. Book three nights over the July 4 weekend and receive a fourth night free (Code: JULY4). Additionally, receive a free round of golf on the Links Golf Course with your booking. This offer is valid July 1-8, 2012. For more details or to book your trip, call (877) 953-2435 or visit their website.

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By Ben Moroski for PeterGreenberg.com